Facing any type of criminal charge can be overwhelming and being convicted of the charge can lead to difficulties in life. Fortunately, Prince George County, Maryland does offer a diversion program that gives individuals charged with specific crimes the chance to avoid being prosecuted. If successfully completed, that person may also be able to avoid having a criminal record as well. So here are some important facts about this process.
The program is not available for all defendants and all types of criminal charges. It is reserved only for those charged with certain misdemeanor offenses. Another requirement is that the defendant must either have no criminal history or a limited criminal history. The defendant is then given the opportunity to satisfactorily complete all of the conditions of the process. If he or she does, the prosecutor may then agree to drop all criminal charges against the individual. Eligibility for the program is determined by the Office of the State Attorney.
One of the diversion programs in Prince George County is known as the marijuana diversion program. It is available for those who are facing a first time charge of marijuana possession. The amount of marijuana related to the criminal charge must be less than 10 grams. The program can offer the defendant a choice of either taking a six-hour class or performing 24 hours of community service. Participants must stay drug free during the program and must participate in random urinalysis.
There are four additional diversion programs available in Prince George County. However, any Maryland resident who is facing these kinds of charges may want to speak with a criminal defense attorney in order to discover if they are potentially eligible for the program.
Source: princegeorgecountymd.gov, “Diversion programs,” Accessed Jan. 18, 2016